Business, international

How can acting CEO escape a sneak attack?

Article Abstract:

A hypothetical case is developed of an acting managing director of a sporting goods manufacturing firm, who is chosen as the result of a compromise because neither of the two majority shareholders' nominees was amenable to both. The manager was promised, however, that he would be named as the permanent director if his performance warranted, but in the process of bringing a new product to market, the success of which was paramount to the company's success, a rift develops between the manager and the non-executive chairman. In the end it appears that one of the two majority shareholders will gain control of the firm, and that the product may never reach the market. Martin Dives, a senior associate of MMG PLC of London comments on how the manager could have avoided the problem by improving his managerial skills.

Should general manager challenge CEO over ethics?

Article Abstract:

A hypothetical case is presented in which the general manager of a kitchen design firm discovers that the CEO has been giving large and unauthorized discounts to some suppliers and customers, as well as giving them preferential treatment in terms of delivery and availability. Other examples of careless business practices and favoritism are noted by the manager, and a review of the company's books reveals severely lax bookkeeping practices. It is suggested that in response to this corruption the general manager take charge of the situation right away and begin steps to clean up the organization's operation from top to bottom. Ways for the general manager to implement quick and effective change are described.